The Coalition Government is bolstering the Australian Building and Construction Commission (ABCC) with the appointment of two new Deputy Commissioners.

Minister for Jobs and Industrial Relations, the Hon Kelly O’Dwyer MP, said the appointment of Ms Jill Jepson and Mr Matthew Kelleher will boost the ability of the ABCC to enforce the rule of law in the building and construction sector.

“Ms Jepson and Mr Kelleher bring with them a depth and breadth of experience and knowledge that will serve the ABCC and the construction industry well,” Minister O’Dwyer said.

Ms Jepson has been the Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer of the ABCC since 2017 and was previously Head of Corporate Services and Chief Financial Officer at Roy Morgan Research Limited. She has also occupied Senior Executive positions in the Australian public service.

Mr Kelleher is currently Special Counsel at Clayton Utz, and has previously worked as a lawyer and Senior Associate at the firm in building and construction law, including advising and acting for the ABCC.

“The ABCC plays a crucial role maintaining the rule of law in this important industry, ensuring building work is carried out fairly, efficiently, productively and free of intimidation and harassment, so the industry can continue to strengthen the Australian economy and benefit the Australian community as a whole.”

“I congratulate Ms Jepson and Mr Kelleher on their appointments and look forward to working with them to make the building and construction industry fairer for all,” Minister O’Dwyer concluded.

Ms Jepson commences on 17 December 2018 and Mr Kelleher on 7 January 2019, each for a five year term.